Perhaps it was fitting that Kristen Steiner, Mark Livingston and Mark Bairos anchored what everyone called an awesome donation Tuesday morning in Johnston.
The three – whose offices are a stone’s throw from one another on Atwood Avenue – held a mock check representing a $2,340 donation to The Autism Project. The funds were raised during the April 6 “Guns vs. Hoses” basketball game between Johnston Police and Fire personnel.
“The Autism Project is so grateful to the Johnston Fire and Police departments and those that took part and support this great event,” said Steiner, who is the nonprofit’s senior development officer. “The funds raised will help to support vital programs for local children, families and caregivers.”
Moreover, Steiner – along with her colleagues Mini Ortiz, Linda Brunetti, Jennie Moran, Denise Layfield and Abby Waite – told Mayor Joseph Polisena, Police Chief Richard S. Tamburini and Fire Chief Peter Lamb: “It is truly special to see those that are already committed to protect and serve go the extra mile and raise money to support those impacted by autism spectrum disorder in their community.”
Meanwhile, Bairos – who coordinated the Johnston Police team – and event chair and Deputy Police Chief Joseph P. Razza wanted it known: “We would just like to thank everyone, all 400-plus people who came out for the game and showed support for The Autism Project.”
Razza also played in the game, and he teased making the game an annual affair.
“It was truly a fun-filled evening for a truly great cause, our neighbors at The Autism Project,” he said.
Ironically, the police department’s headquarters is located at the intersection of Atwood and Cherry Hill avenues just north of The Autism Project at 1516 Atwood Ave. next to the Johnston Fire Department’s headquarters.
The deputy chief gave thanks to Polisena, Tamburini and Lamb and the men and women of the police and fire departments for their special show of support.
He also praised Gary Salzillo, who owns and operates Northeast Auto Body, for donating his time and providing entertainment. BJ’s Wholesale Club and Stop & Shop were also thanked for their support.
“The game and night was really a nice community event,” Polisena added. “I was impressed with the crowd and proud of our police and fire departments for raising a nice amount of money for The Autism Project.”
For those who missed the fun-filled basketball game, the Hoses defeated the Guns, 47-41, inside Johnston High’s Edward L. DiSimone Gymnasium. Bairos and other personnel from both departments hope round two is played in 2020. 1
Comments
No comments on this item Please log in to comment by clicking here